Formula One news

Schumi rules out podium

Former world champion Michael Schumacher has ruled out even a podium place in today's final grand prix of 2005 in China. The German, to start the Shanghai round from sixth, told reporters that Ferrari should expect 'no more than points' at the end of the race.

''Fourth to sixth, something like that,'' the 36-year-old added. ''A podium is unrealistic -- too much would have to happen in front of us. Perhaps I can fight with Jenson Button, but I think the rest will just drive away.''

Why on earth, then, would Italy's Tifosi, or Schumacher's German and European fans, bother to wake up so early on a Sunday morning to watch the grand prix?

''Rise, please!'' Michael grinned. ''I don't think it will be as exciting as Suzuka,'' he warned, ''but the (constructors') title is still open and you might see some good (overtaking) moves.''

In all honesty, however, Schumacher might well be wishing he was all tucked up in his Swiss mansion and bed. ''With our current level of performance,'' Michael conceded, ''I'm glad the season is nearly over, honestly.''

more news

• 07 Jan.
  • Ecclestone reveals September deadline for Donington
  • Ferrari willing to supply 'Honda' with engines
  • Brawn says Honda won't test before season
• 06 Jan.
  • Ferrari to use electronic pitstop system in 2009
  • Kubica to start karting team
  • Webber's recovery going well
  • Ferrari to reveal new car next week
  • Stewart hits out at Ecclestone and Mosley
• 05 Jan.
  • Red Bull's RB5 to debut in February
  • Suspended sentence and fine for Verstappen
  • Berger confirms Buemi for STR
• 04 Jan.
  • Kubica expecting more accidents
• 03 Jan.
  • Encouraging news for Donington
• 02 Jan.
  • Di Resta still hopeful of F1 drive
  • "Title loss would have damaged Hamilton's reputation"
• 01 Jan.
  • Hakkinen supports medals system
• 31 Dec. '08
  • Kubica: Next year is a big challenge
  • Hakkinen: Vettel will soon be a Formula 1 champion
  • Hamilton receives MBE award
  • Heidfeld expects more accidents in 2009
• 30 Dec. '08
  • Hamilton to join Madame Tussauds
  • Ecclestone: Button should take a sabbatical
  • Manager: Alonso would love to join Ferrari one day
  • Changes at Toro Rosso
• 29 Dec. '08
  • Hamilton to miss victory parade in Woking
  • Alonso to join Ferrari in 2011?
  • Mexican billionaire denies Honda bid
• 28 Dec. '08
  • Mexican buyer for Honda?
• 27 Dec. '08
  • F1 drivers positive on Algarve circuit
• 26 Dec. '08
  • Montezemolo says KERS introduction is a mistake
• 25 Dec. '08
  • Season's greetings from GPUpdate.net
• 24 Dec. '08
  • Massa against proposed pay cut
  • Ferrari undecided over Schumacher future
  • Karthikeyan not interested in joining Force India
  • Mosley: Finding a successor won't be easy
  • Ecclestone won't split teams - Howett
  • Mosley may still try to continue
• 23 Dec. '08
  • WSR team Draco teams up with Force India
  • Howett: Ecclestone not able to split FOTA
  • Toyota committed to Formula 1

Homepage